5 Latin American Fruits to Try for Better Health

There are many advantages of incorporating fruit into one's regular diet. Fruit has become widely recognized as an excellent source of vitamins and minerals essential for one's health.

Fruits come in all sizes, shapes, textures, colors and of course, tastes. Perhaps one of the delights of traveling around the world is the opportunity to try different things. Latin America is home to some of the world's most colorful and tastiest fruits.

When incorporating fruit into one's diet, it is always best to have a variety. Remember that there are an abundance of fruits out there besides just apples and oranges. The next time one wants to go on a fruit diet, try these 5 Latin American fruits for better health.

1. Mangosteen.

This sweet fruit grows mainly in Southeast Asia, but also grows in Colombia and Puerto Rico. It's white flesh reminds one of cloves of garlic, Serious Eats says. These fruits are rich in antioxidants, which can help in the fight against cancer.

2. Pitaya.

This colorful fruit, also known as "The Dragon Pear," comes in two varieties: yellow with white flesh, or pink with white or maroon flesh. Indie Traveler says that this has a watery flavor reminiscent of kiwi. They are also rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.

3. Guanabana.

Guanabana or "soursop" is seen as a bizarre looking fruit with its green texture. It has a sour taste and is chewy. One can get their daily dose of vitamins B1, B2 and C.

4. Carambola.

This fruit is also known as "Star Fruit" because of its shape, which resembles a star when cut open. It contains an impressive list of health benefits, including high fiber content that can help with metabolism and weight loss.

5. Guavasteen.

Found in South America, this unassuming fruit offers quite a surprise. The taste is hard to describe, but is something similar to apple pie, with a rum-like taste. It has a minty aftertaste. It is also known to be rich in vitamin C and B6, and can help speed up metabolism.

There are many advantages to eating fruits and it certainly won't hurt to start now. Latin America is known for its abundance of these exotic fruits, so go give them a try!